Romane Ménager retires at 29 after recurring concussions end France career

Romane Ménager, one of France’s most decorated women’s rugby players, has retired at the age of 29 after persistent concussion problems prevented her from returning to competition. The 68-cap back-row announced her decision in a post on Instagram, citing medical advice and a need to protect her long-term health.

“After two seasons of doing everything possible to return to the field in the best possible conditions, I must now face the facts,” Ménager wrote. “Following difficulties in recovering after several concussions, and after numerous discussions with the medical staff, we have made the decision to end my playing career in order to preserve my health.”

Ménager had returned to the pitch in April 2025 after several months out with concussion, only to suffer another head injury during France’s Women’s Six Nations match against Italy in Parma. That setback forced her withdrawal from France’s squad for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. At the time, she acknowledged the severity of her situation: “My health comes first, especially when it comes to my head. It’s not something you can afford to gamble with or take risks on.”

She had hoped a six-month break from the game might allow her to return through the France sevens programme, but she was ultimately unable to recover to the standard required for elite competition.

In a retirement post that opened with a childhood memory — “22 years ago, a little girl discovered rugby in Villeneuve-d’Ascq” — Ménager reflected on a career built on the values of sharing, combativity, and resilience. She paid tribute to teammates, coaches, staff, volunteers, and supporters who had, she said, “contributed to making this path something unique”.

Over the course of her career, Ménager won two French club championships alongside her twin sister Marine, with Lille and Montpellier respectively, as well as Six Nations titles in 2016 and 2018. She was also part of the France squad that finished third at the Women’s Rugby World Cups in 2017 and 2021.

“If I close this chapter today, I do it certain that the story is far from over,” she wrote. “I’m proud to see the evolution of women’s rugby and most importantly the commitment, passion and investment of all the women who make it live and progress every day.”